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As Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching this week, I’d like to take the time to give thanks. Last year was my first year not spent at home with family for Thanksgiving, and this year the status quo remains the same. If you read my post last year, I’d like to apologize in advance for pretty much repeating what I said. On that note, there are some new things I’d like to give thanks for. So, just sit back and enjoy what I want to give thanks for in my second year of living abroad!

This list cannot be started without mention the support and love from my parents. A year later and they still worry over me, and while I’m sure that can be chalked up to the “eldest son is living abroad” syndrome, but I appreciate how they still check up on me. Having their support sincerely keeps me going, so thank you so much mom and dad!

One year on, I’m blessed to be working in a job I love. Yes, teaching kids and teenagers English can get tedious, but I wouldn’t trade this for the world! It’s been incredibly rewarding, and I count my lucky stars I landed this job.

As my previous school (RIP EF Mitino) had shut down over the summer, I switched over to another EF school (Mayakovskaya) for this year. I was worried that the magic of the year wouldn’t be carried over-I heard some horror stories about hours and other teachers. Rest assured, that hasn’t been the case as my school has been absolutely amazing! From the warm welcome the minute I stepped inside to the great coworkers to the awesome kids, I immediately felt at home. Thanks Mayakovskaya for making my transition between schools a seamless one!

To follow up the previous point, I want to give thanks that I feel myself thriving in this profession, especially after the highs and lows from last year. It’s nothing short of a miracle feeling far more confident in the classroom; I’ve found myself become more confident, which hadn’t manifested to this extent. What a difference a year makes, eh?

Sports. I know this may be a cliche, but since I arrived in Moscow last September, I’ve been blessed to a) have the opportunity to continue to play the sport I love (hockey) and b) pick up a new one (Australian Rules Football). Not only have I met plenty of awesome locals and fellow expats, it’s kept me in shape and given me additional activities to look forward to! I’ve also been able to take in an excessive amount of Kontinental Hockey League games (15, as of this writing), so I’ve been able to indulge in spectator sports as well. Life’s been good on the athletic front, much to my happiness.

Finally, I’d like to thank each and every person I’ve met here in Russia. Whether they are native Russians or fellow teachers/expats, my experience to date wouldn’t be what it is without having met you. The warmth and joy you’ve brought when our paths crossed has been invaluable, and for that, I salute you.

It may be early, but I have so much to give thanks for. My fourteen-plus months in Russia have been nothing short of joyful, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of my time here has to offer!